Picture Book Review: Domo in the World

For some weird reason that I can’t quite decipher, I have become alarmingly fond of Domo-kun. I don’t know what Domo is, I don’t know if anyone does, and yet I can’t help but laugh every time I see the odd, sponge shape that is Domo. Perhaps this haiku will help find some reason for my Domo affection:

Those glossy black eyes?

Delightfully full of play.

Maybe you should floss?

Or as I am confused by Domo’s gender:

Is Domo a boy?

Or could Domo be a girl?

Does it matter which?

This board book follows Domo through the seasons, with adorable photos featuring the fuzzy creature. The haiku is occasionally silly and made me laugh aloud, but the humor will go over the heads of most younger readers. The colorful images should delight, though, and if you have a small child you want to brainwash with Japanese pop culture, this is a good choice to begin the subtle encouragement towards an appreciation for all things anime- and manga-inspired.